Shoelace holder

ABSTRACT

A shoelace retainer is integrated with a shoe having a shoelace. The retainer features a one or more flaps permanently or releasably attached to the shoe at a position for receiving the free ends of the shoelace. The bottom surfaces of the flaps include releasable attachments such as hook and loop fastening elements. The retainer also features one or more tabs in functional alignment with the flaps. The tabs have hook and loop fastening elements adapted to engage the elements of the hook and loop fastener on the bottom side of the lateral flap. The tabs and flaps are adapted to releasably secure the free ends and bows of a tied shoelace. An elastic tongue joint is optionally provided to facilitate extension of the tongue.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation in part and claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Nonprovisional application Ser. No. 11/558,198, filed Nov. 9, 2006, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by this reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention generally relates to laced footwear, and more particularly, to a shoelace holder integrated with the footwear and adapted to releasably secure the free ends and bows of shoelaces to prevent the shoelaces from untying and to prevent distracting movement of the shoelaces.

BACKGROUND

Shoelaces are thin cords fitted (i.e., laced) to shoes (i.e., shoes, sneakers, boots or any laced footwear) to prevent the shoe from slipping off by accident. Lacing entails running the shoelaces through the holes, eyelets or lugs typically in a crisscross pattern to form a strong adjustable network. A shoelace can be untied and loosened in a familiar manner, permitting the shoe to open wide to admit the wearer's foot. It can then be tightened and knotted to secure the shoe to the wearer's foot.

While shoelaces have proven to be very effective means for securing shoes to a wearer's foot, they suffer several shortcomings. One shortcoming is the tendency to become untied due to the shoelace material, the conventional knot and disturbances. Another shortcoming is improper sizing, with laces typically being too long and likely to annoyingly swing and/or drag along the ground.

The problem of untying can be attributed in part to the material. Traditional shoelaces were made of cotton, jute, hemp, rawhide or other materials commonly used in the manufacture of rope. Modern shoelaces often incorporate various synthetic fibers, which look better and wear longer, but are generally more slippery and thus far more prone to coming undone than those made from traditional fibers.

The problem of untying can also be attributed in part to the method of tying. Shoelaces can be tied in many different ways. The most common bow, however, involves forming a criss-cross knot, and then making a first loop by simply doubling a first free end back onto itself. The second free end is then passed around the first loop. A second loop formed by simply doubling the second free end back onto itself is pulled through a loop formed by the second free end wrapped around the first loop. The first and second loops are then pulled until a bow-knot is firmly formed. Unfortunately, this commonly used knot and other variations are terribly insecure and conducive to coming loose.

The problem of untying can also be attributed in part to improper length. Laces that are too short are difficult to properly tie. If laces are too long, the ends may drag. Employing a different lacing method that consumes either more or less lace is a tedious and inconvenient way to address this problem. Cutting the laces removes the aglets, which results in frayed unattractive ends.

Various devices and techniques have been devised to prevent untying of laces. For example, double knotting is effective, but produces an unappealing mound that can be frustrating to undo. Various retainer devices have been developed to clamp, cinch or contain the knot. While such devices may be effective, they are unsightly, inconvenient to use and annoying to wear. Additionally, such devices concentrate on maintaining the knot, but do nothing to prevent the free ends and loops of the tied laces from swinging or dragging along the ground.

What is needed is an aesthetically pleasing or inconspicuous, easy to use, device that can be readily adapted to footwear to secure shoelaces, prevent untying and retain the free ends and loops of the tied laces. The invention is directed to overcoming one or more of the problems and solving one or more of the needs as set forth above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To solve one or more of the problems set forth above, in an exemplary implementation of the invention, a shoelace retainer is provided. The shoelace retainer is integrated with a shoe having a shoelace. The retainer features a right flap having a top surface and a bottom surface, an attached end and a free end. The attached end is attached to the right side of the shoe at a position for receiving a free end of the shoelace. Optionally, the top surface may be adorned with ornamentation, a logo or other decorative elements. The bottom surface of the right flap includes elements (e.g., preferably loop elements) of a hook and loop fastener. A left flap having a top surface and a bottom surface, an attached end and a free end is also provided. The attached end is attached to the left side of the shoe at a position for receiving a free end of the shoelace. The bottom surface of the left flap includes elements (e.g., preferably loop elements) of a hook and loop fastener.

In one aspect of the invention, a shoelace retainer integrated with a shoe is provided. The shoe has an upper, throat, a shoelace, a medial side and a lateral side. The shoelace retainer has a lateral flap. The lateral flap has a top surface and a bottom surface, an attached end and a free end. The attached end is attached to the lateral side of shoe upper at a position for receiving a free end of the shoelace. The bottom surface of the lateral flap includes releasable attachment elements of a hook and loop fastener. A medial flap is also provided. The medial flap has a top surface and a bottom surface, an attached end and a free end. The attached end of the medial flap is attached to the medial side of shoe upper at a position for receiving a free end of the shoelace. The bottom surface of the medial flap includes releasable attachment elements of a hook and loop fastener. A lateral tab is attached to the shoe in general alignment with the lateral flap, between the attached and free ends of the medial flap. The lateral tab is comprised of hook and loop fastening elements adapted to engage the elements of the hook and loop fastener on the bottom side of the lateral flap. A medial tab is attached to the shoe, in general alignment with the medial flap, between the attached and free ends of the medial flap. The medial tab is comprised of hook and loop fastening elements adapted to engage the elements of the hook and loop fastener on the bottom side of the medial flap. The lateral tab and lateral flap are adapted to releasably secure the lateral free end and bow of a tied shoelace, and the medial tab and medial flap are adapted to releasably secure the medial free end and bow of the shoelace when tied.

In another aspect of the invention, a shoelace retainer is integrated with the tongue of a shoe. A lateral flap has a top surface and a bottom surface, an attached end and a free end. The attached end is attached to the lateral side of the tongue at a position near the free top end of the tongue. The bottom surface of the lateral flap includes releasable attachment elements of a hook and loop fastener. A medial flap has a top surface and a bottom surface, an attached end and a free end, the attached end is attached to the medial side of the tongue at a position near the free top end of the tongue. The bottom surface of the medial flap includes releasable attachment elements of a hook and loop fastener.

A lateral tab is attached to the upper of the shoe in general alignment with and reach of the lateral flap, between the attached and free ends of the lateral flap. The lateral tab is comprised of hook and loop fastening elements adapted to engage the elements of the hook and loop fastener on the bottom side of the lateral flap. A medial tab is attached to the upper of the shoe in general alignment with and reach of the medial flap, between the attached and free ends of the medial flap. The medial tab is comprised of hook and loop fastening elements adapted to engage the elements of the hook and loop fastener on the bottom side of the medial flap. The lateral tab and lateral flap is adapted to releasably secure the lateral free end and lateral bow of a tied shoelace, and the medial tab and medial flap is adapted to releasably secure the medial free end and medial bow of the shoelace when tied.

In another aspect of the invention, the medial flap is attached to the medial side of the upper adjacent to the throat, and the lateral flap is attached to the lateral side of the upper adjacent to the throat. The throat includes a perimeter and the medial flap may extend along 10 to 100% of the medial side of the perimeter of the throat, and the lateral flap may extend along 10 to 100% of the lateral side of the perimeter of the throat.

In another aspect of the invention, the top surface of the medial and/or lateral flaps may display indicia.

In another aspect of the invention, the bottom surface of the lateral flap includes loop elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the bottom surface of the medial flap includes loop elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the lateral tab includes hook elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the medial tab includes hook elements of a hook and loop fastener. Alternatively, the bottom surface of the lateral flap may include hook elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the bottom surface of the medial flap may include hook elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the lateral tab may include hook elements of a loop and loop fastener; and the medial tab may include loop elements of a hook and loop fastener.

In another aspect of the invention, the medial flap and medial tab are adapted to releasably engage a portion of medial side of a shoelace without engaging a knot in the shoelace; and the lateral flap and lateral tab are adapted to releasably engage a portion of a lateral side of a shoelace without engaging the knot in the shoelace.

In another aspect of the invention, the a lateral tongue tab attached to the tongue of the shoe may be provided in general alignment with and reach of the lateral flap, between the attached and free ends of the lateral flap. The lateral tongue tab is comprised of hook and loop fastening elements adapted to engage the elements of the hook and loop fastener on the bottom side of the lateral flap. A medial tongue tab is attached to the tongue of the shoe in general alignment with and reach of the medial flap, between the attached and free ends of the medial flap. The medial tongue tab is comprised of hook and loop fastening elements adapted to engage the elements of the hook and loop fastener on the bottom side of the medial flap.

In another aspect of the invention, laced and removable flap assemblies are provided. The laced assembly includes a U-shaped body with a pliant flap and a corresponding tab disposed along the top and configured for releasable attachment to the flap. The u-shaped body includes a plurality of apertures for lacing. The apertures align generally with some or all of the lacing apertures in a shoe. The free ends and bows of the laces may then be engaged between the flap and tab of the laced flap assembly.

The removable flap assembly includes a posterior flap joined to a anterior tab by a flexible joint. An engagement anchor, which extends from the upper end of the posterior flap, provides means for securing the flap assembly under or surrounded by (entangled with or engaged by) the tied knot. In use, the flap assembly is secured to the shoe by engaging the anchor with the knot. Then, the free ends and bows of the laces may be releasably engaged between the anterior tab and posterior flap.

In yet another aspect of the invention, the tongue is attached to a strip of elastic material (i.e., an elastic coupling) sewn or otherwise secured into the vamp of the shoe. The elastic coupling facilitates tugging, adjusting and positioning of the tongue for comfort and positioning of laces, tabs and flaps.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other aspects, objects, features and advantages of the invention will become better understood with reference to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings, where:

FIG. 1 shows a profile of a shoe that includes an exemplary shoelace holder in an disengaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 2 shows a profile of a shoe that includes an exemplary shoelace holder in an engaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 3 shows a profile of a shoe that includes another exemplary shoelace holder in an engaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 4 shows a profile of a shoe that includes another exemplary shoelace holder in an engaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 5 shows a top plan view of a shoe that includes an exemplary shoelace holder in an disengaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 6 shows a top plan view of a shoe that includes another exemplary shoelace holder in an disengaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 7 shows a top plan view of a shoe that includes another exemplary shoelace holder in an engaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 8 shows a top plan view of a shoe that includes an exemplary shoelace holder in a disengaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 9 shows a top plan view of a shoe that includes an exemplary tongue-mounted shoelace holder in an engaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 10 shows a top plan view of a shoe that includes an exemplary tongue-mounted shoelace holder in a disengaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 11 shows a top plan view of another shoe that includes an exemplary tongue-mounted shoelace holder in a disengaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 12 shows a top plan view of another shoe that includes an exemplary tongue pocket shoelace holder in an engaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 13 shows a top plan view of another shoe that includes an exemplary tongue pocket shoelace holder in a disengaged position with a flap closed according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 14 shows a top plan view of another shoe that includes an exemplary tongue pocket shoelace holder in a disengaged position with a flap released according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 15 shows a top plan view of another shoe that includes an exemplary throat pocket shoelace holder in a disengaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 16 shows a top plan view of another shoe that includes an exemplary throat pocket shoelace holder in an engaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 17A shows a top plan view of an exemplary laced flap assembly in an engaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 17B shows a top plan view of an exemplary laced flap assembly in a disengaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 17C shows a top plan view of an exemplary shoe upon which a laced flap assembly may be releasably attached according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 18A shows a top plan view of an exemplary removable flap assembly in an uninstalled disengaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 18B shows a top plan view of a laced portion of a shoe without an exemplary removable flap assembly according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 18C shows a top plan view of a laced portion of a shoe with an exemplary removable flap assembly in an installed and disengaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 18D shows a top plan view of a laced portion of a shoe with an exemplary removable flap assembly in an installed and engaged position according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 19 shows a top plan view of a tongue attached to a strip of elastic material (i.e., an elastic coupling) sewn or otherwise secured into the vamp (i.e., upper) of an exemplary shoe according to principles of the invention.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the figures are not intended to be drawn to any particular scale; nor are the figures intended to illustrate every embodiment of the invention. The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments depicted in the figures or the types of footwear, shapes, relative sizes, ornamental aspects or proportions shown in the figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to the Figures, in which like parts are indicated with the same reference numerals, various views of exemplary shoes with exemplary shoelace retainers according to principles of the invention are shown. The term “shoe” is used herein for convenience to refer to any footwear with a shoelace. The invention is not limited to athletic footwear as shown in the Figures. Instead, the invention may be utilized with any type of footwear with laces, in any sizes, including, but not limited to, casual, dress and athletic footwear for men, women and children.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a profile of a shoe 100 is shown. The exemplary shoe is conventional, except for the added shoelace retainers comprised of flaps 105, 110, which are adapted to hold the free ends 130 and bows 140 of the tied shoelace securely in position against a tab 115, 120 (as shown in FIG. 5) on the shoe upper 150. The exemplary shoe 100 has an upper part (i.e., “vamp” or “upper”) that separates the foot from the air, and helps hold the shoe onto the foot. A throat 155 is formed at the top of the upper for receiving a foot into the shoe 100. A shoelace 125 is threadedly attached to the shoe 100. Tying the shoelace forms a pair of bow loops 140, 145, and free ends with aglets 130, 135. A flap-like flexible tongue 160 is positioned beneath the laces.

Shoelace retainers comprised of flaps 105, 110 and corresponding tabs 115, 120 are provided on each side (i.e., lateral and medial sides) of the shoe 105, 110 in the vicinity of the laces. Illustratively, FIG. 1 shows the flap of a first retainer 110 on the lateral side of the shoe 100, and the tip of a flap for another retainer 105 on the opposite (medial) side of the shoe. As used herein, the anatomical term medial refers to a side of a shoe near the midline of a person, while lateral refers to the opposite side of the shoe.

An exemplary shoelace retainer according to principles of the invention includes a pliant flap 105, 110 adapted for releasable attachment to a tab 115. The exemplary pliant flap 105, 110 shown in FIG. 1 has two ends—one free end and one end that is attached to the shoe 100, such as near the throat 155 of the shoe 100 (as shown in FIGS. 1 through 6) or near the top of the tongue 160 (as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8). The flap 105, 110 should be long enough to extend over engaged portions of laces and wide enough to provide adequate engagement surface area. Flaps with aspect ratios, shapes and locations other than as shown in FIG. 1 may be utilized within the scope of the invention. The flap may be made of a flexible material such as leather, imitation leather, vinyl or other natural or synthetic material that is lightweight and capable of being folded and unfolded repeatedly without significant deterioration.

An exemplary shoelace retainer according to principles of the invention also includes a tab 115 corresponding to each pliant flap 110. The tab 115 is attached to the upper of the shoe, in general alignment with the flap 110, between the attached and free ends of the flap 110. The tab 115 may be surface mounted or recessed such that the top of the tab 115 is approximately level with the surface of the upper 150 of the shoe 100.

The exemplary pliant flap 105, 110 has a top side and a bottom side. In a preferred implementation, loop elements (i.e., the “hairier” side) of a hook and loop fastener are secured to the bottom side of the pliant flap 105, 110. The hook elements may be glued, stitched or otherwise attached to the flap 105, 110. However, the specific means by which the hook material is disposed on the flap 105, 110 and their size and locations are not critical, provided that corresponding hook and loop elements can be repeatedly connected and disconnected.

The hook and loop elements provide easy-to-use reliable releasable attachments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that releasable attachments other than hook and loop fasteners may be utilized in lieu of and/or in addition to hook and loop fasteners, and such releasable attachments come within the scope of the invention. Non-limiting examples include snaps, buttons, studs, magnetic attachments and any other releasable attachment means.

The corresponding tab 115 is comprised of hook elements of the hook and loop fastener. The free end 130 and bow loop 140 of a shoelace may be positioned (i.e., sandwiched) between the flap 110 and tab 115. When the loop elements of the flap 110 are pressed against the hook elements of the tab 115, the hooks catch in the loops and hold the flap 110 to the tab 115, with the free end 130 and bow loop 140 sandwiched in between, as conceptually shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 4. Advantageously, the hook elements of a hook and loop fastener will engage many shoelace materials. This facilitates positioning of the shoelace end 130 and bow 140 for sandwiching between the flap 110 and tab 115. The flap 110 can then be pulled apart from the tab 115, such as with a peeling action, to release the engaged free end 130 and bow loop 140 of the shoelaces. By way of example and not limitation, the hook and loop elements may be of the type manufactured and sold by Velcro Corporation of New York, N.Y. under the registered trademark VELCRO®.

Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that a shoelace retainer comprised of a flap 105, 110 and tab 115, 120 arrangement is provided on the opposite sides (i.e., lateral and medial) of the shoe, to secure both free ends 130, 135 and bow loops 140, 145 of the shoelace. Thus, each shoe is equipped with right and left side (i.e., lateral and medial) shoelace retainers comprised of flaps and tabs. Additionally, each flap and tab may be comprised of separate components or a single piece of material folded in half.

To use the shoelace retainers, with reference to FIGS. 1, 2 and 5, the flaps 105, 110 are placed unfolded over portions of the bows 140, 145 as well as free ends 130, 135 of shoelaces of the shoe 100 near the throat 155 of the shoe 100. The flaps 105, 110 are then releasably secured against the corresponding tabs 115, 120 by bringing the corresponding hook and loop elements together, with the engaged portions of the laces sandwiched therebetween. The secured portions of laces are thereby substantially restrained from loosening, swinging and becoming untied, while the free ends and bow loops are suspended above the ground. Advantageously, the exemplary retainers secure the laces without cinching, clamping or otherwise engaging the knot.

Referring now to FIG. 2, the free end 130 and bow loop 140 of a shoelace is shown positioned (i.e., sandwiched/engaged) between the flap 110 and tab 115. When the loop elements of the flap 110 are pressed against the hook elements of the tab 115, the hooks catch in the loops and hold the flap 110 to the tab 115, with the free end 130 and bow loop 140 sandwiched in between. The engaged free ends and bow loops of the shoelace can be released by pulling the flaps 105, 110 apart from the tabs 115, 120, such as with a peeling action.

The sizes, configurations and arrangements of shoelace retainers may be varied widely in accordance with principles of the invention. Illustratively, referring to FIG. 3, elongated retainers extending from the front of the throat 155 alongside the threaded laces 125 are shown, it being understood that the elongated shoelace retainers are arranged substantially in a symmetrical manner on the medial and lateral sides of the shoe 100. The pliant flaps 105, 110 are placed over corresponding tabs 115, 120 (concealed by the flaps in FIG. 3) with the free end 130 and bow loop 140 of engaged laces sandwiched therebetween. When the loop elements of the flaps 105, 110 are pressed against the hook elements of the tabs 115, 120, the hooks catch in the loops and hold the flap 105, 110 to the tabs 115, 120, with the free ends and bow loops sandwiched in between.

As additional examples, referring to FIGS. 4 and 6, elongated retainers extending along the edge of the throat of the shoe from the front of the throat 155 alongside the threaded laces 125 are shown, it being understood that the elongated shoelace retainers are arranged substantially in a symmetrical manner on the medial and lateral sides of the shoe 100. The flaps 105, 110 and corresponding tabs 115, 120 may extend along a portion of the edge of the throat 155 as shown in FIG. 4 or substantially along the entire throat 155 as shown in FIG. 6. The pliant flaps 105, 110 are placed over corresponding tabs 115, 120 (concealed by the flaps in FIG. 3) with the free end 130 and bow loop 140 of engaged laces sandwiched therebetween. When the loop elements of the flaps 105, 110 are pressed against the hook elements of the tabs 115, 120, the hooks catch in the loops and hold the flap 105, 110 to the tabs 115, 120, with the free ends and bow loops sandwiched in between. Advantageously, this embodiment conceals substantial portions of the laces while restraining the laces and resisting loosening.

As a further exemplary embodiment, referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, retainers extending from the tongue 160 of the shoe 100 are shown. The flaps 105, 110 are attached to the tongue 160 along the top edge of the flaps 105, 110 near the free top end of the tongue 160. The flaps 105, 110 are positioned to releasably engage corresponding tabs 115, 120 may extend along portions of the upper 150, as shown in FIG. 8, in alignment with and within reach of the flaps 105, 110. Tongue mounted tabs 705, 710 with hook elements are also provided beneath the flaps. The tongue mounted tabs 705, 710 are adapted for releasable engagement of the flaps 105, 110 on the tongue. The tongue mounted tabs 705, 710 may be surface mounted or recessed in the tongue 160. The pliant flaps 105, 110 are placed over corresponding tabs 115, 120 and/or tongue mounted tabs 705, 710. Portions of laces 125 may be sandwiched therebetween. When the loop elements of the flaps 105, 110 are pressed against the hook elements of the tabs 115, 120, 705, 710 the hooks catch in the loops and hold the flap 105, 110 to the tabs 115, 120. Advantageously, this embodiment conceals substantial portions of the flaps 105, 110 while restraining the laces and resisting loosening.

As yet another exemplary embodiment, referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, retainers extending from the tongue 160 of the shoe 100 are shown. The flaps 905, 915 are adjoined by a central portion 910 attached to the tongue 160 near the free top end of the tongue 160. The flaps 105, 110 are positioned to releasably engage corresponding tabs 935, 945, which may extend along portions of the upper 150. In an exemplary implementation, each flap 905, 915 has a top side and bottom side comprised of loop material of a hook and loop fastener. At least one flap, such as the lateral flap 915 also has a section of hook material 920 on its top side. The central portion 910 is configured to releasably engage the top side of the medial flap 905, when the lateral flap 905 is folded over onto the central portion 910 in a disengaged configuration. The hook section 920 of the lateral flap 915 is configured to releasably engage the top side of the medial flap 905, when the lateral flap 905 is folded over onto the bottom side of the medial flap 905 which is folded over onto the central portion 910 in a disengaged configuration, as shown in FIG. 10. The pliant flaps 905, 915 are placed over corresponding upper-mounted tabs 935, 945 when engaging laces. Portions of laces 130, 135, 140, 145, may be sandwiched therebetween. When the loop elements 925 of the flaps 905, 915 are pressed against the hook elements of the tabs 935, 945, the hooks catch in the loops and hold the flap 905, 915 to the tabs 935, 945.

The tabs 935, 945 may be located on various parts of the upper 150 within reach of the portions of laces 130, 135, 140, 145 to be secured, and within reach of the pliant flaps 905, 915. By way of example and not limitation, the tabs 935, 945 may be located on the upper 150 within reach of and in general alignment with the pliant flaps 905, 915, as shown in FIG. 10. As another non-limiting example, the tabs 935, 945 may be located on the upper 150 within reach of the pliant flaps 905, 915, along the edge of the throat 155, as shown in FIG. 11.

Referring now to FIGS. 12, 13 and 14 top plan views of an embodiment that includes medial and lateral tongue pockets 1205 and 1215 for receiving free ends 130, 135 and bows 140, 145 of laces are shown. A pliant tongue flap 1210 is attached to the top edge of the tongue 160. A tab 1225 attached to the tongue 160 releasably engages the tongue flap 1210. Closure of the flap 1210 conceals the pocket openings. Releasing the flap 1210 exposes the pocket openings.

Referring now to FIGS. 15 and 16 top plan views of an embodiment that includes medial and lateral pliant throat pockets 1505 and 1510 for receiving free ends 130, 135 and bows 140, 145 of laces are shown. Releasable closures on the pliant throat pockets 1505, 1510 facilitate releasable opening and closure of the pockets. Free ends 130, 135 and bows 140, 145 of laces may be secured in the closed the pockets 1505, 1510 as shown in FIG. 16. Opening the pockets 1505, 1510 releases the free ends 130, 135 and bows 140, 145 of laces.

Referring now to FIGS. 17A and 17B, top plan views of an exemplary laced flap assembly in an engaged and disengaged position according to principles of the invention are shown. The laced flap assembly 1720 includes a U-shaped body 1715 with a pliant flap 1710 and a tab 1730 disposed along the top. The u-shaped body includes a plurality of apertures for lacing. The apertures align generally with some or all of the lacing apertures in the shoe 100, as shown in FIG. 17C. Thus, the u-shaped body may be laced to the shoe. The free ends and bows of the laces may then be engaged between the flap 1710 and tab 1730 of the laced flap assembly.

The pliant flap 1710 is adapted for releasable attachment to the tab 1730. The exemplary pliant flap 1710 has two ends—one free end and one end that is attached to the tab 1730. The flap 1710 should be long enough to extend over engaged portions of laces and wide enough to provide adequate engagement surface area. Flaps with aspect ratios, shapes and locations other than as shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B may be utilized within the scope of the invention. The flap may be made of a flexible material such as leather, imitation leather, vinyl or other natural or synthetic material that is lightweight and capable of being folded and unfolded repeatedly without significant deterioration.

Referring now to FIGS. 18A, 18C and 18D, an exemplary removable flap assembly 1800 in an uninstalled and installed, and a disengaged and engaged positions according to principles of the invention are shown. A lacing portion 1860 of an exemplary shoe includes laces 1855 running through eyelets 1865 and tied with a bow having a knot 1850 in a conventional manner. The removable flap assembly 1800 includes a posterior flap 1815 joined to a anterior tab 1825 by a flexible joint 1820, as shown in FIGS. 18A and 18C. An engagement anchor 1810 extends from the upper end of the posterior flap 1815, as shown in FIGS. 18A, 18C and 18D. The anchor 1810 provides means for securing the flap assembly 1800 under or surrounded by the tied knot 1850. While a t-shaped anchor 1850 is shown, other anchor structures and configurations suitable for engagement with a knot or tied or knotted region of laces may be utilized in addition to or in lieu of the t-shaped anchor 1850 in accordance with the principles of the invention, as shown in FIG. 18D. Thus, in use, the flap assembly 1800 is secured to the shoe by engaging the anchor 1810 with the knot 1850. Then, the free ends and bows of the laces 1855 may be engaged between the anterior tab 1825 and posterior flap 1815 of the laced flap assembly 1800, as shown in FIG. 18D.

The anterior tab 1825 and posterior flap 1815 should each be long enough to extend over engaged portions of laces and wide enough to provide adequate engagement surface area. Flaps with aspect ratios, shapes and configurations other than as shown in FIGS. 18A, 18C and 18D may be utilized within the scope of the invention. The flaps may be made of a flexible material such as leather, imitation leather, vinyl or other natural or synthetic material that is lightweight and capable of being folded and unfolded repeatedly without significant deterioration.

In an exemplary implementation, the anterior tab 1825 and posterior flap 1815 are configured for releasable attachment to each other. By way of example, each of the anterior tab 1825 and posterior flap 1815 has a side comprised of hook or loop material of a hook and loop fastener. Thus, the anterior tab 1825 is configured to releasably engage the posterior flap 1815, when the anterior tab 1825 is folded over onto the posterior flap 1815 in an engaged configuration, as shown in FIG. 18D. The anterior tab 1825 is configured to release from the posterior flap 1815, when the anterior tab 1825 is urged (e.g., peeled) away from the posterior flap 1815 into a disengaged configuration, as shown in FIGS. 18A and 18C.

As is well known, the tongue of a shoe is a strip of leather or other material, sewn into the vamp of a laced shoe and extending to the throat of the shoe, thereby protecting a foot contained in the shoe. Several embodiments of the invention, such as the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 7 through 14, require adequate access to the free end of the tongue to effectively secure laces on the tongue-integrated means. Concomitantly, many people prefer a tongue to reach and protect their ankle. To facilitate such access and extension, in another exemplary embodiment, the tongue 160 is attached to a strip of elastic material 1900 (i.e., an elastic coupling) sewn or otherwise secured into the vamp of the shoe, as shown in FIG. 19. As another example, an elastic strip 1705 may attach the tongue 160 to the shoe 100 as in FIG. 17. In a preferred implementation, the anterior end of the tongue (i.e., the end opposite the free end) is attached to the elastic coupling. However, the elastic coupling 1900, 1705 may be provided at any section of the tongue 160 between the free end and anterior end of the tongue. The elastic coupling 1900, 1705 facilitates tugging, adjusting and positioning of the tongue for comfort and positioning of laces, tabs and flaps. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the elastic coupling may be employed in footwear without a shoelace holder, and such embodiments are intended to come within the scope of the invention.

In an aftermarket implementation, a kit may be provided for modifying shoes to include flaps and tabs and/or elastic tongue couplings according to embodiments of the invention as described above. Various means for attaching the kit components (e.g., flaps and tabs) to the shoe may be included in the kit. Such attachment means may include adhesives, glue, other bonding agents, stitching and other means or materials known to one skilled in the art for permanently or removably attaching the components to a shoe according to an embodiment as described above.

Decorative indicia may be displayed on the top (outer-facing) sides of flaps 105, 110, pockets 1505, 1510 and like components. Such indicia may include any markings or objects applied using any means of the art, including without limitation printing, embossing, stitching, bonding, casting, painting, cutting, carving, burning, melting and molding. By way of example and not limitation, the indicia may comprise a logo, brand name or design elements; decorative patterns; cartoon characters; sports team logos; or the like. Such decorations allow companies to display their brands and wearers to express their individual tastes.

The shoelace retainer of the present invention provides a distinct advantage over prior art shoelace retainers because the shoelace ends and bow loop portions emanating from the knot can be substantially releasably confined, to impede the loosening and untying of the knot, to prevent or limit swinging and to prevent the end portions from interfering with the wearer's activities. Furthermore, the shoelace retainer according to the present invention is integrated with the shoe, and unlikely to be released accidentally. Moreover, the free ends and bow loops are suspended above the ground.

Although the invention has been described with reference to a specific embodiment, the foregoing description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiment as well as alternative applications of the invention will be suggested to persons skilled in the art by the foregoing specification and illustrations. It is therefore contemplated that the appended claims will cover any such modifications, applications or embodiments as fall within the true scope of the invention. By way of example, releasable attachments other than hook and loop fasteners may be utilized in lieu of and/or in addition to hook and loop fasteners, and such releasable attachments come within the scope of the invention. Non-limiting examples include snaps, buttons, studs, magnetic attachments and any other releasable attachment means.

While an exemplary embodiment of the invention has been described, it should be apparent that modifications and variations thereto are possible, all of which fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum relationships for the components and steps of the invention, including variations in order, form, content, function and manner of operation, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention. The above description and drawings are illustrative of modifications that can be made without departing from the present invention, the scope of which is to be limited only by the following claims. Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents are intended to fall within the scope of the invention as claimed. 

1. A shoelace retainer integrated with a shoe having a medial side and a lateral side, an upper, throat, a shoelace, said shoelace forming a medial free end and medial bow and a lateral free end and lateral bow when tied, said shoelace retainer comprising: a lateral flap, said lateral flap having a top surface and a bottom surface, an attached end and a free end, the attached end being attached to the lateral side of shoe upper at a position for receiving a free end of the shoelace, the bottom surface of the lateral flap including a first releasable attachment; a medial flap, said medial flap having a top surface and a bottom surface, an attached end and a free end, the attached end being attached to the medial side of shoe upper at a position for receiving a free end of the shoelace, the bottom surface of the medial flap including a second releasable attachment; a lateral tab attached to the shoe in general alignment with the lateral flap, between the attached and free ends of the medial flap, said lateral tab being comprised of a first corresponding releasable attachment adapted to engage the elements of the first releasable attachment on the bottom side of the lateral flap; a medial tab attached to the shoe, in general alignment with the medial flap, between the attached and free ends of the medial flap, said medial tab being comprised of a second corresponding releasable attachment adapted to engage the second releasable attachment on the bottom side of the medial flap; and said lateral tab and lateral flap being adapted to releasably secure the lateral free end and bow of the shoelace when tied, and said medial tab and medial flap being adapted to releasably secure the medial free end and bow of the shoelace when tied.
 2. A shoelace retainer according to claim 1, wherein the medial flap is attached to the medial side of the upper adjacent to the throat, and the lateral flap is attached to the lateral side of the upper adjacent to the throat.
 3. A shoelace retainer according to claim 1, wherein the throat includes a perimeter and the medial flap is attached to the medial side of the upper adjacent to the throat, and the lateral flap is attached to the lateral side of the upper adjacent to the throat, and said medial flap extends along 10 to 100% of the medial side of the perimeter of the throat, and said lateral flap extends along 10 to 100% of the lateral side of the perimeter of the throat.
 4. A shoelace retainer according to claim 1, wherein the top surface of the medial flap displays indicia.
 5. A shoelace retainer according to claim 1, wherein the top surface of the lateral flap displays indicia.
 6. A shoelace retainer according to claim 1, wherein the top surface of the medial flap displays indicia and the top surface of the lateral flap displays indicia.
 7. A shoelace retainer according to claim 1, wherein the bottom surface of the lateral flap includes loop elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the bottom surface of the medial flap includes loop elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the lateral tab includes hook elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the medial tab includes hook elements of a hook and loop fastener.
 8. A shoelace retainer according to claim 2, wherein the bottom surface of the lateral flap includes loop elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the bottom surface of the medial flap includes loop elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the lateral tab includes hook elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the medial tab includes hook elements of a hook and loop fastener.
 9. A shoelace retainer according to claim 1, wherein the bottom surface of the lateral flap includes hook elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the bottom surface of the medial flap includes hook elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the lateral tab includes hook elements of a loop and loop fastener; and the medial tab includes loop elements of a hook and loop fastener.
 10. A shoelace retainer according to claim 2, wherein the bottom surface of the lateral flap includes hook elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the bottom surface of the medial flap includes hook elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the lateral tab includes loop elements of a hook and loop fastener; and the medial tab includes loop elements of a hook and loop fastener.
 11. A shoelace retainer according to claim 1, said shoelace having a knot, and wherein the medial flap and medial tab are adapted to releasably engage a portion of medial side of a shoelace without engaging a knot in the shoelace; and the lateral flap and lateral tab are adapted to releasably engage a portion of a lateral side of a shoelace without engaging the knot in the shoelace.
 12. A shoelace retainer according to claim 2, said shoelace having a knot, and wherein the medial flap and medial tab are adapted to releasably engage a portion of medial side of a shoelace without engaging a knot in the shoelace; and the lateral flap and lateral tab are adapted to releasably engage a portion of a lateral side of a shoelace without engaging the knot in the shoelace.
 13. A shoelace retainer configured for use with a shoe having an upper, a throat, a tongue having a free top end, a shoelace, said shoelace forming a lateral free end and lateral bow and a medial free end and medial bow when tied, a medial side and a lateral side, said shoelace retainer comprising: a first flap, said first flap having a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface of the first flap including first releasable attachment elements; a first tab in general alignment with and reach of the first flap, said first tab being comprised of first corresponding releasable attachment elements adapted to engage the first releasable attachment elements on the bottom side of the first flap; said first tab being attached to said shoe, and said first tab and first flap being adapted to releasably secure a free end and bow of at least one of the lateral free end and lateral bow and the medial free end and medial bow of the shoelace when tied.
 14. A shoelace retainer according to claim 13, wherein: the first flap is a lateral flap, said lateral flap having a top surface and a bottom surface, an attached end and a free end, the attached end being attached to the lateral side of the tongue at a position near the free top end of the tongue, the bottom surface of the lateral flap including first releasable attachment elements; the first tab is a lateral tab attached to the upper of the shoe in general alignment with and reach of the lateral flap, between the attached and free ends of the lateral flap, said lateral tab being comprised of first corresponding releasable attachment elements adapted to engage the first releasable attachment elements on the bottom side of the lateral flap; and said shoelace retainer further comprises: a medial flap, said medial flap having a top surface and a bottom surface, an attached end and a free end, the attached end being attached to the medial side of the tongue at a position near the free top end of the tongue, the bottom surface of the medial flap including second releasable attachment elements; a medial tab attached to the upper of the shoe in general alignment with and reach of the medial flap, between the attached and free ends of the medial flap, said medial tab being comprised of second corresponding releasable attachment elements adapted to engage the second releasable attachment elements on the bottom side of the medial flap; and said lateral tab and lateral flap being adapted to releasably secure the lateral free end and lateral bow of a tied shoelace, and said medial tab and medial flap being adapted to releasably secure the medial free end and medial bow of the shoelace when tied.
 15. A shoelace retainer according to claim 14, wherein at least one of the top surface of the medial flap and the top surface of the lateral flap displays indicia.
 16. A shoelace retainer according to claim 14, said shoelace having a knot, and wherein the medial flap and medial tab are adapted to releasably engage a portion of medial side of a shoelace without engaging a knot in the shoelace; and the lateral flap and lateral tab are adapted to releasably engage a portion of a lateral side of a shoelace without engaging the knot in the shoelace.
 17. A shoelace retainer according to claim 14, further comprising: a tongue tab attached to the tongue of the shoe in alignment with and reach of the lateral flap, between the attached and free ends of the lateral flap, said lateral tongue tab being comprised of hook and loop fastening elements adapted to engage the elements of the hook and loop fastener on the bottom side of the lateral flap; and a medial tongue tab attached to the tongue of the shoe in general alignment with and reach of the medial flap, between the attached and free ends of the medial flap, said medial tongue tab being comprised of hook and loop fastening elements adapted to engage the elements of the hook and loop fastener on the bottom side of the medial flap.
 18. A footwear enhancement for use with a shoe having an upper, a throat, a tongue having a free top end, a shoelace, said shoelace forming a lateral free end and lateral bow and a medial free end and medial bow when tied, a medial side and a lateral side, said enhancement comprising: an elastic coupling attaching said tongue to the upper, said elastic coupling facilitating extension of the tongue.
 19. A footwear enhancement according to claim 18, further comprising: a first flap, said first flap having a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface of the first flap including first releasable attachment elements; a first tab in general alignment with and reach of the first flap, said first tab being comprised of first corresponding releasable attachment elements adapted to engage the first releasable attachment elements on the bottom side of the first flap; said first tab being attached to said shoe, and said first tab and first flap being adapted to releasably secure a free end and bow of at least one of the lateral free end and lateral bow and the medial free end and medial bow of the shoelace when tied.
 20. A footwear enhancement according to claim 19, wherein: the first flap is a lateral flap, said lateral flap having a top surface and a bottom surface, an attached end and a free end, the attached end being attached to the lateral side of the tongue at a position near the free top end of the tongue, the bottom surface of the lateral flap including first releasable attachment elements; the first tab is a lateral tab attached to the upper of the shoe in general alignment with and reach of the lateral flap, between the attached and free ends of the lateral flap, said lateral tab being comprised of first corresponding releasable attachment elements adapted to engage the first releasable attachment elements on the bottom side of the lateral flap; and said shoelace retainer further comprises: a medial flap, said medial flap having a top surface and a bottom surface, an attached end and a free end, the attached end being attached to the medial side of the tongue at a position near the free top end of the tongue, the bottom surface of the medial flap including second releasable attachment elements; a medial tab attached to the upper of the shoe in general alignment with and reach of the medial flap, between the attached and free ends of the medial flap, said medial tab being comprised of second corresponding releasable attachment elements adapted to engage the second releasable attachment elements on the bottom side of the medial flap; and said lateral tab and lateral flap being adapted to releasably secure the lateral free end and lateral bow of a tied shoelace, and said medial tab and medial flap being adapted to releasably secure the medial free end and medial bow of the shoelace when tied. 